Dons bolster defence with Ward

MK Dons have secured the services of Blackburn Rovers’ experienced defender Elliott Ward on a loan deal until the end of the 2017/18 campaign.

The 6ft 4in centre-back completed the move this morning (Tuesday) and will bolster Dan Micciche’s defensive options for the remainder of the season.

Ward and full-back Josh Tymon, also signed today, become Dan Micciche’s first signings as MK Dons manager and make it four new recruits this transfer window.

“It’s come to that point of the season where it’s important to play games and hopefully I can do that here and help the team in the process,” Ward said after completing his move to Stadium MK.

“It’s a young group here and hopefully I can bring some experience to the team by going out there and doing my job.

“The style of football that the manager wants to play is something that I’m used to and it’s a style I like to play. My main job, though, is to defend and help the team win games.”

Ward, 33, has totalled 325 senior appearances for clubs such as West Ham United, Coventry City, Norwich City, AFC Bournemouth and Blackburn, predominantly appearing in the Sky Bet Championship but also featuring a number of times in the Premier League.

This season, he has played 15 games for Rovers, helping them climb to third in the Sky Bet League One table.

“We needed to add another centre-half after the unfortunate injury to Joe Walsh,” Micciche told mkdons.com.

“It was important, for me, to bring some experience in there and Elliott has a fantastic CV. He’s extremely professional, he’s good on the ball and he’s an excellent reader of the game. He’s also got a good stature and presence.

“As well as wanting to play exciting, attacking football we also need to keep clean sheets and I believe Elliott will help us do that.”